What is a centrifuge mainly used for in a laboratory setting?

A centrifuge is primarily used to separate particles from a suspension using centrifugal force. When a mixture is spun at high speeds, denser particles move outward to the bottom or sides of the container, while less dense components remain in the liquid phase. This process allows for the efficient separation of various components based on their density, making it an essential tool in laboratories for tasks such as isolating cells, purifying proteins, or separating blood components.

The other options describe tasks that are handled by different equipment or methods. For example, cleaning laboratory surfaces does not involve the use of a centrifuge but rather would utilize cleaning agents and tools. Measuring small volumes of liquid is typically done using pipettes or micropipettes, which are specifically designed for that purpose. Accurate temperature measurements are taken with thermometers or temperature sensors, not centrifuges. Thus, the function of a centrifuge is distinctly focused on separation via centrifugal force, highlighting its specialized role in laboratory processes.